Media Contact:
Allison Steele | phillytreecoalition@phmc.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Philly Tree Coalition Mobilizes Recovery Support After Severe Storm Damage in West and South Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA, PA — July 13, 2026 — On Saturday, July 11, our West and South Philly neighbors were devastated by flooding. Over 300 tree emergencies were identified throughout the region during what is described as a storm that included four microbursts. The Philly Tree Coalition recognizes that the recent storms have caused significant challenges for many Philadelphians, from extended power outages and loss of groceries to property damage caused by fallen trees. Our thoughts and support are with all Philadelphians impacted by these storms. We know that people are safer when our trees are safer.
The Philly Tree Coalition, primary facilitator of the Philly Tree Plan, is deeply concerned about our neighbors and committed to helping communities recover. At the same time, The Philly Tree Plan is a 10-year strategic citywide effort calling for long-term strategies, priorities, and investments in cooperative management of our city’s canopy. This includes the assessment of trees and their risk, the reduction of the burden on residents to care for trees, and the staffing support needed to adequately address the preservation of our city’s tree canopy.
We are collecting information about tree-related damage via several City of Philadelphia entities and using this information to formulate timely, helpful support. If you are an organization or individual impacted by the storm, please report your damages, issues and/or loss through one of the methods below. Alternatively, email us directly at phillytreecoalition@phmc.org
Support for residents will include, but is not limited to:
- Volunteers for cleanup efforts
- Sponsored restoration events
- Access to needed tools
- Limited no-cost tree care labor
- Responsive grant funding
The Philly Tree Coalition partners are committed to helping residents and implementing the goals described in our city’s Tree Plan.
Immediate Resources for Neighbors
- Damage Reporter Survey
If any private property has received storm-related damage, we ask you to complete the secure survey at: www.phila.gov/damagereporter
The information collected in this form will be used by the City of Philadelphia to determine the areas and extent of incident-related damages. This form is not an application for resources and does not guarantee assistance; however, it may help determine whether assistance is available. The survey can also be completed by calling 3-1-1. - How to Recover from a Disaster
The City’s disaster recovery resources provide guidance on safety, cleanup, insurance, and documentation tips to support residents recovering from storm impacts.
StormPHL Messages: The Office of Emergency Management has activated a dedicated text message platform for storm recovery updates. Residents recovering from the storm can text “StormPHL” to 888-777 to receive recovery information and updates. - Downed Trees
Call 911 if a tree is blocking a road or has fallen onto a house.
Contact PECO if a tree is on electrical lines.
Report non-emergency tree removal needs through 3-1-1. - Blocked or Damaged Sewer Inlets
Blocked or damaged sewer inlets should be reported to the Philadelphia Water Department’s 24-hour emergency line: 215-685-6300
For all other city service requests, residents can contact 3-1-1, use the 311 Mobile App, or visit a Neighborhood Community Action Center. - Insurance Information and Guidance
Guidance on reporting damage to your insurance company as well as tips for avoiding scams.
State of PA Natural Disaster Insurance Guide - Additional Information
More information regarding storm recovery resources and alerts is available at: https://evbg.co/0z4slw
About the Philly Tree Coalition
The Philly Tree Coalition, hosted by Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC), is a multi-sector partnership comprising core representation from Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, PowerCorpsPHL, PHMC, The Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS), the School District of Philadelphia, and the Fairmount Park Conservancy. As the primary implementers of the Philly Tree Plan, the Coalition is dedicated to a 30-year vision: expanding Philadelphia’s tree canopy to 30%.
